Bring the Outdoors In with a Beautiful Terrarium Indoor Succulent Display

A Terrarium indoor succulent display is a favourite DIY project that combines the love for nature with a touch of creative home decoration. These charming mini-gardens are perfect for adding a fresh, green vibe to any space, no matter the season. 

Why Terrariums and Succulents

A succulent terrarium is not only visually stunning but also incredibly low-maintenance so the perfect gift. They’re ideal for those who may not have a green thumb but still want to enjoy the beauty of indoor plants. Plus, creating these displays can be a fun and relaxing activity for the whole family.

Getting Started: What You Will Need

Before we dive into the step-by-step process to create our glass terrarium, let’s gather our materials. Here’s a list of essentials you’ll need:

Glass Containers

Glass containers have become a popular choice for creating stunning terrarium displays due to their ability to showcase intricate natural elements in an elegant and transparent setting. The transparency of glass allows for an unobstructed view of the carefully arranged plants, rocks, and other decorative items inside the container, creating a visually appealing focal point in any room. These containers can be anything from a clear glass bubble bowl, mason jar, fish bowls to specially designed terrarium containers. The clear glass allows you to see all the layers and adds an element of beauty to any location. 

One interesting aspect of using glass containers for terrarium displays is the way they interact with light. Glass has the unique ability to refract and reflect light, enhancing the overall visual impact of the terrarium by creating captivating patterns and shadows. This play of light adds depth and dimension to the arrangement inside the container, transforming it into a dynamic focal point and piece of living art that evolves throughout the day as sunlight shifts and changes angles. 

Glass containers are also practical choices for creating terrarium displays because they provide a sealed environment that helps maintain optimal moisture levels for plant growth. The clear walls allow you to easily monitor humidity levels and plant health without disturbing the delicate ecosystem within. This ensures that your miniature garden thrives while offering a low-maintenance option for incorporating greenery into your home.

Small Pebbles or Gravel

Small pebbles or gravel play a crucial role in creating visually stunning terrarium displays. These tiny rocks not only provide essential drainage for the plants but also add texture and depth to the overall composition. By carefully choosing the color and size of the pebbles, it can enhance the style appeal of the terrarium, turning it into a miniature focal point.

In addition to their decorative function, small pebbles or gravel are an excellent option and can also serve as a functional element in terrariums. They help in maintaining proper moisture levels by preventing waterlogging and ensuring adequate airflow around the plant roots. The varied shapes and colors of these tiny stones can mimic natural landscapes, creating a sense of harmony within the terrarium environment.

The versatility of small stones or gravel allows for endless creative possibilities when designing terrarium displays. Whether used as a base layer, accentuating specific features, or even arranging them to create patterns or paths, these little rocks can elevate an ordinary terrarium into an extraordinary work of art.

Activated Charcoal

Activated charcoal is not just for skincare or detox drinks- it can also be a game-changer in creating stunning terrarium succulent displays. This powerhouse ingredient is known for its ability to absorb toxins and purify the air, making it perfect for maintaining the health of your miniature plant ecosystem. By incorporating activated charcoal into the soil of your terrarium, you can help prevent mould and bacteria growth, ensuring a thriving environment for your succulents.

Additionally, activated charcoal can act as a natural odour eliminator in your terrarium, keeping it smelling fresh and clean. Its porous nature allows it to trap unwanted smells and pollutants, creating a more pleasant atmosphere for both you and your plants. 

Potting Soil

When creating a thriving terrarium or succulent display, the choice of potting soil is crucial. Opting for a well-draining mix specifically formulated for cacti and succulents can make all the difference in the health and growth of your plants. These desert-dwelling beauties thrive in soil that provides excellent drainage while retaining just enough moisture to keep their roots happy.

The key lies in finding a balance between water retention and aeration within the potting mix. This ensures that excess moisture is quickly drained away, preventing root rot and other issues commonly seen in these plant varieties. Additionally, incorporating ingredients like perlite or sand can help improve soil structure and prevent compaction, allowing the roots to breathe and grow freely. By prioritizing the quality of your potting soil, you set your terrarium or succulent display up for success, ensuring vibrant colors, healthy growth, and long-lasting beauty for years to come.

Succulents

Succulents are nature’s ultimate survivors, thriving in even the harshest conditions with minimal care. Their unique shapes and vibrant colors make them a popular choice for terrarium displays, adding a touch of beauty to any space. Creating a terrarium succulent display allows you to unleash your creativity, mixing different varieties to create a stunning mini oasis.

The versatility of succulents makes them perfect for both beginners and experienced gardeners alike. From the charming rosettes of echeverias to the quirky shapes of lithops, there is a succulent for every style and preference. Incorporating succulents into your home decoration not only adds style appeal but also brings a sense of calmness and serenity to your surroundings. Whether arranged in a hanging globe or nestled in a glass container, these plants have the power to transform any space into an interesting and dynamic display.

Decorative Elements

Consider adding decorative elements like pebbles, moss, Air plants or small figurines to enhance the visual appeal of your terrarium display. These details can add personality and charm to your creation while also creating a more dynamic and engaging scene for viewers to enjoy. Small figurines, shells, or colorful sand can be added to provide a personal touch to your terrarium. 

Tools

To create a stunning terrarium display, you’ll need a few essential tools to bring your vision to life. Some great options would be a selection of small gardening tools such as tweezers and mini rakes which will make planting and arranging your terrarium elements much easier and more precise. You could also add into the equation a small spoon and a spray bottle for watering. 

With the right tools in hand, you will be well-equipped to craft a breathtaking terrarium display that is sure to impress.

Step-by-Step Guide to Building Your Terrarium

Prepare Your Container

Start with a clean glass container. If you’re using a recycled jar, make sure it’s thoroughly washed and dried.

Add Pebbles or Gravel

Pour a layer of small pebbles or gravel at the bottom of the container. This layer helps with drainage and prevents water from accumulating at the roots of your plants.

Layer the Activated Charcoal

Add a thin layer of activated charcoal on top of the pebbles. This keeps the environment inside the terrarium fresh and helps filter the air and water.

Add Potting Soil

Next, add a layer of potting soil. The depth depends on the size of your container, but generally, a few inches will suffice. Make sure it’s deep enough for your succulents to root comfortably.

Plant Your Succulents

Gently remove the succulents from their nursery pots and loosen the roots. Create small holes in the soil with your spoon or finger and place each succulent into its new home. Arrange them in a way that balances height, color, and texture.

Decorate!

This is the fun part—personalizing your terrarium! Add decorative stones, shells, or miniature figurines to create a unique scene. Let your creativity shine.

Water Sparingly

Using a spray bottle, lightly mist the soil. Succulents don’t need much water, so be careful not to overdo it. Remember, it’s easier to add water than to remove it.

Maintaining Your Terrarium

Once your terrarium is complete, place it in a spot where it can receive indirect sunlight. Succulents love light but can get scorched in direct sunlight. Water sparingly, only when the soil feels completely dry.

Display Ideas

Now your terrarium is ready, it’s time to showcase your creation. Here are a few display ideas:

Coffee Table Centerpiece

A terrarium makes a stunning centerpiece for your coffee table, transforming an ordinary coffee table into a vibrant conversation piece. Incorporating different textures and materials, such as glass containers or decorative stones or possibly pair it with a few books and candles for a great look to enhance the visual appeal of the display. 

By experimenting with various arrangements and a combination of items can help you personalize your display to reflect your style and personality.  

Shelving Units

Display shelving units provide the perfect platform to showcase unique terrarium succulent displays. These units not only elevate the visual appeal of your plants but also create a focal point in any room. By utilizing different sizes and shapes of shelving, you can create a dynamic and eye-catching display that adds a touch of nature to your space.

When arranging your terrarium succulents on display shelving units, consider varying heights and textures to create visual interest. Mixing different types of succulents with varying colors and shapes can create a stunning contrast that draws the viewer’s attention. Additionally, incorporating small decorative elements such as rocks or figurines can enhance the overall  display, adding personality and charm to your indoor garden. With display shelving units as your canvas, the possibilities for creating captivating terrarium succulent displays are endless.

Desk Decoration

 Brighten up your workspace with a small terrarium. It can provide a calming presence and a touch of nature to your daily routine. These miniature gardens not only look visually pleasing but also have several benefits, such as reducing stress and increasing productivity. By incorporating different shapes and sizes of succulents in a glass container, you can create a visually interesting focal point on your desk.

Consider customizing your terrarium with unique elements like colored stones, mini figurines, or LED lights to add a personal touch. Experiment with various arrangements to find the perfect balance between greenery and space. With proper care and maintenance, your terrarium succulent display can thrive in any indoor environment while providing a refreshing break from the daily grind. 

A Wide Windowsill

A wide windowsill offers an ideal space for creating a stunning display of terrarium succulents. The ample sunlight that streams through the window provides the perfect environment for these low-maintenance plants to thrive. Consider combining a variety of succulent species in different colors, shapes, and sizes to create a visually appealing arrangement that will brighten up any room.

The beauty of a wide windowsill display lies in its versatility. You can experiment with different terrarium designs, such as open or closed containers, hanging planters, or even vertical gardens. By incorporating elements like small decorative rocks, driftwood pieces, or miniature figurines into your display, you can add a personal touch and create an enchanting mini landscape right in your own home.

Conclusion

Creating a Terrarium and indoor succulent display is a delightful way to bring a piece of the outdoors into your home. These little green worlds are easy to care for and can be customized to suit your personal style. I hope this inspires you to start your own mini garden and enjoy the beauty it brings to your space.